Business spotlight: Detail Me Now

It’s the details that count

Contributed by Madeline Otten

Formerly a mobile service, Detail Me Now – an auto detailing company founded by co-owners José Hernandez and Tyler Brown – now has an established location in Crofton Plaza behind the gas station by Lake Monticello.

The business celebrated its grand opening June 1 and has been in full swing ever since.

Originally from Buffalo, N.Y., Hernandez has had a passion for automotive cleaning since the age of 18. Wanting to seek new opportunities and a change of scenery, he packed his bags and relocated to Central Virginia four years ago. He began working for the U.S. Postal Service (USPS), but also continued to pursue his interest by working on the side detailing cars.

Eventually Hernandez realized that the USPS was not his calling and his 10 years of experience detailing cars on the side is what he loved. After contemplating, he pushed himself to leave in order to further his skills in automotive detailing. “I felt like there was something more other than coming into a building and doing someone else’s dream for someone else,” he said.

As the only auto detailing service in the Palmyra-Lake Monticello area, Hernandez and his partner Brown strive for customer satisfaction. “We respond to reviews within the hour and we have had all positive,” Hernandez said. “Although, if we [didn’t] meet the needs of the customer we would handle it appropriately.”

The five-star rated company has a range of services for those who do not have the time or interest in cleaning both the interior and exterior of their car. Services include everything from a simple wash and vacuum to the full package, which leaves the vehicle looking show-car style.

A typical day for Hernandez starts at 8 a.m. and differs depending on which services customers have requested. Some days entail an interior deep clean, while others might involve a careful exterior wash.

Hernandez and Brown have high goals for the new company. They want to become the well-known detailing service that others recommend. They also hope to eventually expand the business into another area, potentially Scottsville or Charlottesville.

“My favorite part would have to be the end result,” said Hernandez. “I enjoy looking forward to what I can achieve and it’s sometimes a challenge, which is what I like.”

Prices range from $35 for a wash and vacuum to $205 for everything – a deep cleaning inside and out. To schedule or get a quote, call 434-808-9247 and speak with Hernandez or stop by 106 Crofton Plaza.